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You don’t need to be a professional in order to appreciate having the best laser level in your tool box. You’ll find this tool very useful. From hanging pictures in your home, laying floor tiles, to hanging cabinets, there are many uses of a laser level.

Of course, you may say that you can use a carpenter’s level for these applications. But the truth is that the best laser is a lot easier to use. It can help you demarcate a straight line more accurately. Moreover, the line can be longer than just the 2-3 feet line you could do with a carpenter’s level.

The good news is that there are a lot of choices on the market. Prices of laser levels can go as low as $20 to as high as $400. You’d definitely be able to nab a model that suits your needs and budget.

Recommended Product Reviews

1. DEWALT DW089K Self-Leveling 3-Beam Line Laser

This is a lightweight laser level that is designed for pro use. It weighs in at 4 pounds, and has a very reasonable price.

It features multiple design enhancements that can boost productivity on the work site, and even at home.

From installing cabinets to hanging pictures on the wall, this three-beam line laser should work well in most applications.

The main selling point of this laser level is a second plumb line forming a 80 degree intersecting lane on the surface. This third vertical beam gives contractors another way to use the tool for layout applications.

There’s basically no need to use another laser. It thus saves operators time and money, and make themselves more productive in the process.

This tool is easy to adjust thanks to its micro adjust knob. It is durable due to its metal roll cage. It is easy to mount with its universal wall mount and integrated pivot bracket. Plus it has a hard sided kit box for transport and storage.

This 3-beam line laser has a 165 feet range. In terms of accuracy, it is precise within 1/8 of an inch at 30 feet. The red laser projected by the unit is clear and visible indoors, but it is a bit disappointing when used outdoors. This isn’t exactly surprising as red lasers are not known for visibility after 30 to 40 feet.

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2. DEWALT DW087K Horizontal and Vertical Self-Leveling Line Laser

This is very similar to the item previously discussed. It is accurate to with 1/8 inch at a distance of 30 feet. It offers self-leveling within five degrees, which facilitates quick and easy measurement.

This unit is powered by three AAA batteries which are included in the product package.

The batteries can run to more than 20 hours, which means battery changes should be infrequent. The kit box is also thrown in for good measure.

The red laser line of the level is visible up to a distance of 50 feet when working indoors. The unit has a one-button operation, so operators won’t have to deal with complicated menus.

The integrated magnetic pivot bracket enables the unit to be mounted quickly and easily on metal surfaces.

You can also return it within 90 days after purchase and get your money back, just in case you are not satisfied with the item.

Basing on testimonials of Amazon.com reviewers, this unit is a very durable unit that can last for many years. One satisfied user says his unit has feel from 8 feet up numerous times, but remains working well up to this day.

While some reviewers think it is expensive, the argument is that you get what you pay for.

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3. PLS Laser PLS-60521 PLS180 Laser Level Tool

The “claim to fame” of this laser level is having the longest length of line and fan angles in the market.

This tool projects two visible laser lines for level and plumbing, with the laser visible indoors at a maximum range of 100 feet. It is accurate within 1/8 inch over 30 feet.

This tool operates on three AA batteries, with an estimated batter life of more than 30 hours.

The batteries are included in the package, along with a wall bracket, pouch, carrying case, and operating manual.

Many reviewers say this is a professional-grade tool as shown by its features. For one, it can compensate for job site vibrations generated by compressors and generators.

This prevents the laser point from jumping around. More importantly, it ensures that the laser would deliver and accurate information.

But this doesn’t mean that this tool will be difficult for DIYers to use. It is actually very user-friendly. It has a single button operation. Beam visibility is superior compared to other laser levels.

Another common positive feedback from users is the durability of this tool. Many say that it is very sturdy. One reviewer even mentions how it has survived a couple of drops from 10 feet high. The unit continued working.

However, not all reviewers are happy with the product. They say it is a bit pricey. Others looked for certain features like a drywall mount or grid clamp.

4. DEWALT DW088K Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser

Dewalt is a reputable maker of power tools and related equipment. It again shows how good it is with this self-leveling cross line laser.

This tool is ideal for professionals, as it is very handy for commercial applications like installing floor tiles or mapping wall layout.

With an accuracy rating of within 1/8 of an inch at 30 feet, this unit is among the best.

Its laser beam projects crossing vertical and horizontal lines with an extended working range of 165 feet.

Operators should have no problems mounting this device on metal surfaces with its integrated magnetic pivoting base. Its over-molded housing is water and debris resistant. Operating it is easy, with individual buttons found on the side control panel for controlling all the three beams.

Many of those who call it the best laser level say they love how compact this unit is. They are also impressed with the different mounting options of this cross line laser

There’s a tripod mount located on the bottom, which fits well with most camera tripods. Then there are magnets in the mount that facilitate ease attachment to any metal.

But not all reviewers on Amazon.com are impressed. Some say the laser being projected is not bright at all. They add that they have troubles seeing it outdoors.

5. Black & Decker BDL100AV All-In-One SureGrip Laser Level

Black & Decker is another respected brand of power tools. This laser level is priced lower than the other models in this list.

It’s a simple tool that homeowners will find very useful for simple applications like hanging pictures or paintings, or ensuring that items are evenly apart on a certain surface.

This tool is equipped with Black & Decker’s mark-free technology.

You don’t have to worry about the tool leaving stains or smudges on your wall because it has a rubber suction cup with silicon ring. It easily attaches even to nonporous surfaces without ruining their look.

Aside from those features, this laser would alert operators that the level is accurate or inaccurate. When the laser beam is red, then it means that the level is inaccurate. When it is green, it means that the level is precise.

There’s also an audio signal that lets user know about the accuracy of the level.Operators can also switch between the three modes by turning on the large operation switch. As a bonus, the batteries are included in the package.

6. Bosch GLL3-80 3 Plane Leveling-Alignment Laser

This is a sturdy and user-friendly tool that any pro or DIYer will love to have in the toolbox. It has a molded rubber housing that protects that unit against bumps and bruises.

Its keypad is easy to read, with a pulse mode and manual mode indicator. There’s also a low battery indicator in the unit.

Most users love this unit because of its bright laser. They say that it is very visible even in bright sunlight, and even up to a distance of 75 feet. It is also easy to mount on the standard ¼ inch and 5/8 inch tripod mounts.

What many reviewers don’t like about this laser level is that beam versatility isn’t exactly its calling card. It basically allows only four permutations unlike other top rated laser levels which allow different beam positions.

This is another pro-rated laser level that you can use for installing cabinets and lay-outing wall tiles.

This self-leveling cross-line laser level is suited for both indoor and outdoor use. Depending on the lighting conditions, the laser beam projected can be visible up to a distance of 100 feet.

This unit is very lightweight as it weighs just 1.2 pounds. There’s a locking mechanism that safeguards the inner pendulum when the unit is in transport. The included tripod, carrying case, and red glasses are very good inclusions especially for the budget-conscious shopper.

Novice users should have no problems operating this laser level. After inserting the three AAA batteries included in the package, you simply have to mount it on the included tripod.

Then turn it on. After a few seconds, the self-leveler will function as it should. It would shoot a tall and wide beam, and you can reposition accordingly it to cover a surface.

Some users, though, wish that the unit was made of a more durable material than thin aluminum.

Still, this is a very solid choice if you’re looking for a professional especially given its very affordable price.

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8. Bosch GLL 2 Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level with Mount

Many reviewers on Amazon.com are in awe of this laser level. They say the self-leveling capability of this unit is among the best.

It makes use of Bosch’s Smart Pendulum System that employs precision pendulum that accurately levels the unit. And it locks in to ensure that the pendulum is protected well while the unit is in transport.

Other reviews seem to suggest that this is very easy to use, even for novice users. After turning on the unit, it would beam a cross hair laser up to 30 feet. Then hit the power button again to show a horizontal beam.

Another press of the power button will project a vertical beam. A fourth press of the button will turn off the unit.

Once the unit finds a level point, you can lock it in by sliding the red switch.There’s really nothing to hate about this product, except perhaps the lack of a case. But even those who complain about that say it is a minor issue.

Highlighted Features

Runs on two AA batteries only

Alignment project line of up to 30 feet

One-button switch for operating the laser level

Self-leveling system that can alert the operator when the structure is out of alignment.

9. Black & Decker BDL170 BullsEye Auto-Leveling Laser With AnglePro

This is another laser level that you can use at home. It can come in handy for hanging decorative items on the wall, or for angled applications like hanging items along a staircase.

You should be aware that this is not a contractor grade laser level in any way. It is a tool for DIY projects around the house.

Thanks to its self leveling feature, the unit is relatively easy to use. The projected laser line automatically adjusts so no need to worry about the unit on a perfect leveled surface.

You can also turn off the self leveling feature if you want a straight line between two known points. There’s also an integrated protractor that you can use for establishing different line angles.

This Black & Decker tool has a rubber overmold that protects the unit from bumps and bruises. It would only take a couple of AAA batteries to power the unit. There’s also a back light for increased visibility.

Some of the complaints Amazon.com reviewers have with this unit is the poorly lit angled readout, and the drywall spike being not reliable.

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How To Choose Best Laser Level

The following are the factors you need to take into consideration when shopping for a laser level:

A. Accuracy

Arguably the most important factor that makes a good laser level is accuracy. After all, accuracy is critical to your project whether it’s drawing a paint line or simply hanging picture in your room.

To know how accurate the laser level is, refer to its accuracy rating. The best laser level has an accuracy of -+1.5Xm at a distance of 30 meters. A good quality unit will at least have an accuracy of -+3Xm.

B. Projection

The best laser level has a visible beam. Because the apparatus beams a laser level against the surface, you should look for a tool that can project a clear, visible beam. Most laser levels project a red beam, which is visible enough when working indoors.

But if you think there will come a time you will use the tool outdoors, buy a unit that projects a green beam.

Just avoid cheap laser levels that project a laser beam with very low brightness to the point that you can’t even see it at low lighting.

C. Battery life

Almost all laser levels are powered by batteries so it is not surprising that you would want a unit with a long battery life. You should be aware that laser levels are known to eat up a lot of battery power.

You don’t want to charge the unit repeatedly as it can be time-consuming and annoying. The best laser level is one that consumes minimal power and works efficiently, allowing you to complete a task without taking a charging break.

D. Design

Whether you intend to use the unit for DIY projects or at a job site, you would want a unit with a durable design. The laser level must be able to withstand rough conditions. It must be able to survive a little tumble.

Other Considerations:

Maximum range—this refers to the amount of area that can be covered by the laser beam projected by the unit.

Ease of installation/use

Weight

Price

Mountable – the unit should be mountable in different ways, so you can use it indoors and outdoors. The really good laser levels can even be mounted on tripods.

Final Verdict

The best laser level can be anyone from the 10 models discussed above. Whether you’re picking the Bosch models or going with the Dewalt laser level, you will not likely regret buying any of these laser levels.

A laser level may appear to be a specialized power tool that only contractors should have, but even regular guys like you should have one in your garage.

This will come in handy for small tasks like hanging decorative items in your wall, to even more complex chores like cabinet remodeling.

It doesn’t hurt that the prices of laser levels aren’t exactly prohibitive, and that these tools are relatively easy to use. You’d really want to have a laser level in your tool box.

Best Tire Inflator – Guide and Review

The best tire inflator can save your weekend road trip. Imagine you’re ready for a weekend getaway with your family. You have everything loaded in the SUV, from surfboards, life vests, bags, and beach umbrellas.

Your vehicle is also newly washed. Your gas tank is also filled to the brim.You set out for the trip everybody in your family has long been preparing for.

But after an hour or so on the road, you hear a loud, thumping noise. You also notice that it is now difficult to control the vehicle.

So you pull over, get out, and walk around your SUV. And then you notice that you have a flat tire—what a bummer.

The truth is that flat tires can happen anytime, anywhere. That’s why you should always check your spare tire every time you go out. And that’s why you should invest in a tire inflator.

Tire inflators are also known as portable air compressors. They can inflate your tire back and get your vehicle going again.

How to Choose the Best Tire Inflator

There are several factors that you need to consider in shopping for a tire inflator, such as:

A. Types

There are three types of tire inflators-- personal, professional, and industrial. If you intend to use it for your car tires, then you should opt for a personal tire inflator.

It can fit small cars and truck tires. This type is also used for filling sports balls for kids. This is relatively expensive, although it would take time to fill the tire with air due to the smaller pumps.

Professional tire inflators are more powerful than the personal type. Of course, it is also more expensive. Industrial tire inflators are those you find in car care centers.

B. Features

Aside from the type, you should look for the features offered by the tire inflator. Don’t just buy the model that has the most features, however. You should decide which features are most important to you.

One feature that you should look for is the air pressure gauge. This will tell you the current air pressure inside the tires.

You should also buy a unit that has an auto shut off feature as it can prevent the possibility of over-inflating the tire.

C. Ease of use

Working on a flat tire while in the middle of the road can be dangerous, especially if you are in an isolated area. Thus you want the tire inflator to get the job done quickly so to speak.

You must buy a tire inflator with auto inflate, as it makes filling the tires with air a lot easier. With this feature, you simply hit a button and the tire automatically inflates

Having an auto inflator with along cord also helps, because you can reach any tire on your car that needs to be inflated. And a LED work light can let you work on the flat tire even in the middle of the night.

Other Considerations

Battery clips-- some portable air compressors can run directly from the vehicle’s battery using battery clips. While it is portable, it is slow in current thus powering up will be a lot slower.

Sand tray--- this prevents the compressor from sinking into the sand

Thermal safety cut-off—prevents the compressor from overheating.

Recommended Best Tire Inflator Reviews

1. Viair 00088 88P Portable Air Compressor

Editor Rating

This is a highly portable air compressor that motorists should have at the back of their car. It weighs just one pound, so you would have no problem in handling it.

It is also very small with dimensions of 10 x 6 x 6 inches. Despite its size, it is pretty capable of inflating tires up to 33 inches in size.

It has dual battery terminal clamps, so you can be assured that the air filling process is fast. It can also inflate your tires without making a lot of noise, something that cannot be said of other air compressors.

It has a pressure gauge that can easily check the tire pressure. Simply switch off the air compressor and then read the pressure gauge located at the top of the unit. It has a rated usage of approximately 120 PS.

It also has a LED power indicator. Its power cord is also very long at nine feet, while its air hose is even longer at 12 feet.

You can be assured that this tire inflator will last for a long time as it has a high performance piston ring and stainless steel valves protecting it against dust and moisture.

The only thing that can really turn off potential buyers is the price. This is one of the most expensive tire inflators out in the market.

But as they say, you get what you pay for. Investing in this tire inflator could prove to be one of the best decisions you’ll make as a motorist.

2. Kensun YS-205 Portable Air Compressor Inflator

Editor Rating

This is another air compressor that you would want to have at the back of your car. It has a robust design and it runs smoothly and quietly.

It also doesn’t hurt that it is aesthetically attractive. Despite its small size, it is also very powerful.

It has three nozzle adapters so it can inflate all types of vehicle tires. We’re talking here of bicycles, sedans, SUVs, and even a caravan.

It can operate through your car’s cigarette lighter, or plugged right into the wall outlet in your garage. There is a LED light that can guide you while you work on the deflated tire in the middle of the night.

It has a long cord that measures nearly 10 feet, so you can reach the tires at the back of your car. It can inflate tires up to 33 inches in size.

It is still lightweight at 4.7 pounds although it is heavier than the other tire inflator. Because of its compact size of 11.8 inches by 7 inches by 4.8 inches, this one can be stored easily.

If there’s anything to be wary about this tire inflator, then it would have to be the fact that it can overheat pretty easily. Also, there are complaints about the poor customer service of Kensun.

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3. Slime 40022 12-volt Digital Tire Inflator

Editor Rating

Slime is a brand that you can trust, having been in the business since 1989. Its 40022 12-volt digital tire inflator is also highly recommended, as it is easy to use and highly portable.

How easy is this tire inflator to use? You simply set the desired pressure level and press the on button. Then the inflator will automatically shut off once the pressure level of the tire is reached. Yes, there’s no need for you to interfere at all.

Aside from being very easy to use, this tire inflator has a lot of things going for it. One is that it is very reasonably priced. Two is that it has a screw on valve attachment that is compatible with most tire rims. There’s also a digital pressure gauge that most owners use is sufficiently accurate.

It plugs right into the cigarette lighter type receptacle found inside your vehicle. It also has a long power cord that lets you reach all four tires. Once you are done, you can easily store this tire inflator in its housing which is very convenient feature.

Of course, this one has its share of flaws. One usual comment from owners is that it is very loud. That would be a concern when you inflate your tires at home but not much of an issue when you are out on the road.

Highlighted Features:

With Inflate Tire technology, shuts off when desired pressure in tire is reached

4. Black & Decker ASI500 12-Volt Cordless Air Station Inflator

Editor Rating

Like Slime, Black & Decker is a brand that is familiar to most motorists and handyman. Its 12-volt cordless air station inflator is a good example why the brand has remained highly reputable through the years.

This cordless tire inflator has an internal battery that will take around five hours to recharge. You’ll know that the battery has been charged by looking at the LED indicator.

You can also plug this one into the standard 12 volt socket in your vehicle. It can inflate tires, inflatable pool toys, and air mattresses.

It has a maximum operating pressure of 160 PSI. It also has a digital pressure gauge that according to users gives accurate pressure readings.

It features two pressure settings—high and low. There are two hoses provided in this unit. One is for inflating car or bike tires, while the other is for high volume and low pressure items.

You can set this unit to automatically stop when it reaches a certain pressure level. Thus it can protect your inflatable items from over inflating, thanks to this feature.

This one weighs around 5 pounds. It does have an attractive design, with built-in handles that make the unit very portable. It also has an on-board storage that lets you store its accessories. There is also a LED light that guides you while working in the dark.

The most common complaint about this tire inflator is that it is difficult to remove the nozzle from the tire.

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5. Astro 3018 Digital Tire Inflator with Stainless Steel Braided Hose

Editor Rating

A bit expensive when compared to the other tire inflators, the Astro 3018 is still a good bargain when you consider all the advanced features of this unit.

It has a tire pressure monitoring system that according to its owners is very accurate when it comes to reading tire pressure levels.

That alone is worth the price tag to most owners. However, others like that it has an easy change chuck system. Others say that the convenient, one-touch button operation with auto-shut off is a feature that they appreciate the most.

The large, backlit LCD digital display shows PSI or bar measurement. It is covered with rubber sleeve so that you can comfortably carry it.

Speaking of carrying, you should have no troubles lugging this one around as it only weighs 1.8 pounds. It comes with an extra long 21-inch hose.

Again, the most common complaint about this unit is that it is very noisy while in operation.

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6. Family Tool Digital 12v DC Portable Tire Air Pump Inflator

Editor Rating

This is also a very compact and lightweight tire inflator that will come in handy during those inopportune moments that you have a flat tire.

Like most of the units in this list, it is very easy to use. The unit automatically cuts off when the tire pressure level reaches your desired setting, so you don’t need to continuously check the pressure.

It has a maximum pressure of 150 psi with a 5.8 gallon per minute flow rate. It is capable of inflating a flat tire in less than four minutes.

There are also three nozzle adapters that make the unit capable to inflate all kinds of tires, from those of cars, SUV, motorcycles, scooters, and even beach balls and soccer balls.

It has a bright light that guides you in the dark. The light is so bright you can even use it as an SOS light signal. It has a super long swivel hose, capable of reaching all tires in your car. But the cord won’t be able to reach the rear tires of a trailer or a larger truck.

Another common beef that owners have with this tire inflator is that its tire gauge reading isn’t the most accurate.

Editor Rating

This one features a 12 volt outlet power adaptor, meaning you can plug it in the cigarette lighter receptacle of your vehicle and inflate your flat tire wherever you are.

It also has a digital display that shows the tire pressure level, which most owners say is pretty reliable. The built-in microprocessor monitors and stops the pump at your selected air pressure to avoid over inflation.

This is a powerful compressor that is capable of inflating a mid-sized tire in less than 4 minutes. It also has a long reach totaling 12 feet so you can reach all tires of your vehicle.

You can also work in the dark with this tire inflator as it has 8 LED lights with four settings. You can even use those LED lights for SOS light signal.

Once you are done inflating the tire, you can keep the inflator and its accessories in the convenient carriage case. It keeps your inflator protected and clean.

A bonus feature of this unit is a digital guide to tire care.

The usual beef that owners have with this tire inflator is that it is very noisy while in operation. Others say that the noise is something they can live with.

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8. JACO RoadPro Tire Inflator - Portable Air Compressor Pump, 100 PSI

Editor Rating

At 5 pounds, this is not the most lightweight and portable tire inflator in this list. But you can be assured that you can get back on the road when you have this air compressor.

This tire inflator can inflate a flat tire within seconds. It has the ability to pump compressed air at a rate of 35 liters per minute.

If you have a truck or mini-van, this is the tire inflator that you would want to have for those long road trips. Its long, 25-foot hose lets you reach the rear tires easily.

Its air pressure gauge glows in the dark, so you can easily check whether you need to inflate your tires before going on a road trip in the evening. And the gauge is very accurate, according to most owners.

It has a sturdy metal body and comes with a nice carry case for storage. You can store the hose and power cord around the unit and store it in the carry case.

However, a glaring flaw of this tire inflator is that it lack an auto shut off function. Thus you will have to closely watch the tire pressure monitoring gauge to avoid over inflation.

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9. Goodyear i8000 120-Volt Direct Drive Tire Inflator

Editor Rating

Goodyear is yet a familiar brand to most motorists, so you can’t be blamed if you decide to try out this tire inflator. You likely won’t regret that decision as this is one of the more highly rated air compressors out there.

This 120 volt, direct drive inflator is equipped with Whisper Soft technology. Yes, unlike the other tire inflators in this list, Goodyear’s i8000 is extremely quiet when inflating a flat tire.

You won’t be disturbing your neighbors when you use this tire inflator to inflate your car tires.

It can also plug into a standard 120 volt wall outlet for power, so you can use this in the garage without having to plug the unit to the cigarette lighter of your car. It doesn’t plug into the cigarette lighter, so this one is more for home use than for emergencies.

Maximum tire pressure is 150 PSI which is pretty good for a tire inflator. With such power, it can inflate a tire in less than three minutes. You will also appreciate that it has a very good reach of 24 feet so you can reach the rear tires very easily.

This may be a product from a reputable brand but it doesn’t mean that it is perfect. It has its share of flaws. One common problem that owners complain about is that it is slow to inflate a tire once it gets past the 30 psi range.

Other motorists aren’t also impressed with screw-on valve that this unit has. They say that it tends to lose air from the tires when they unscrew it.

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10. Slime 40026 2X Heavy Duty Direct Drive Tire Inflator

Editor Rating

Slime returns to this list with this heavy duty tire inflator. According to Slime, this tire inflator is capable of inflating a standard car tire to 35 psi in just two minutes.

It can be used to inflate car , motorcycle, and ATV tires, among others.

This twin-cylinder air compressor connects directly to the battery. It has an eight-feet power cord and a 22-feet coiled air hose, giving it a total of 30 feet of reach. Thus you should have no problems reaching the rear tires with this tire inflator.

Its air hose has an in-line dial gauge that can measure up to 150 PSI. Inflating the tires is also easy. Simply attach the twist connect hose fitting and screw the opposite end connector into the valve stem of the tire.

Then attach the alligator clamps to your vehicle’s battery. You don’t even have to keep the car’s engine running for this tire inflator to work.

You don’t need to worry about overheating as this unit comes with a thermal protection system. Once you are done inflating the car, you can store the unit and other accessories in the integrated folding handle for easy storage and transport.

The LED light of this unit is also bright enough to let you work in the dark.The major beef that owners have with this tire inflator is its screw-on style, which can cause lost air when unscrewing the hose.